BMW to launch new i3, discontinue i4 after 2026
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- BMW confirmed that the new i3 will begin production at its Munich plant this summer with deliveries slated for autumn, targeting sales by the end of the year.
- BMW i4 will be discontinued after the 2026 model year, making 2026 the final year for the i4 Gran Coupe.
- New i3 is built on a sixth‑generation eDrive 800‑volt architecture, promising up to 30 % longer range and 30 % faster charging than the current i4, with an estimated WLTP range of up to 440 miles (900 km).
- New i3 can charge at up to 400 kW DC, regaining roughly 250 miles (440 km) of range in about 10 minutes.
- BMW iX3 50 xDrive will launch this summer with an MSRP near $60,000, while the new i3 is expected to start around $50,000–$55,000.
- BMW is offering up to $12,500 in stackable discounts and low financing rates on its current EV lineup to clear inventory for the upcoming Neue Klasse models.
- BMW hinted at a possible sportier, coupe‑like i4 replacement and previewed the 2027 iX4 coupe crossover, which will be offered in 40 xDrive and 50 xDrive variants.
Why it matters: Existing i4 owners lose a model as BMW ends production, while buyers gain a higher‑range, faster‑charging i3 priced around $50‑55k, and the brand clears inventory with $12.5k discounts to make room for the new lineup. Dealers also benefit from the discount program, and the rollout of the iX4 coupe expands BMW’s EV portfolio.
